Filmmakers get funding boost

CASH BOOST: Short films such as Susi Newborn’s iconic documentary about peace activists Maynie Thompson, left, and Kara (Kit) Nelson, could benefit from the film commission funding.

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Waiheke filmmakers are hailing an announcement of new grants as a significant step that could showcase the island's creative talent.

The New Zealand Film Commission announced a new scheme last week that will give 16 up-and-coming feature filmmakers funding worth thousands of dollars.

Resident filmmakers Susi Newborn and Shirin Brown both say it has potential to be a big help to other islanders wanting to make their mark in the industry.

The scheme, Fresh Shorts, will offer annual funding of $10,000 to eight short films and $30,000 to another eight.

The level of funding will be based on the director's experience but the scheme aims to identify the next generation of New Zealand filmmakers by nurturing and inspiring new talent.

It will be run in-house by the commission's short film team.

People wanting to apply must be able to offer new, distinctive, and original directorial voices, fresh ideas not seen before in short film, cinematic ideas that deserve to be on the big screen, films that take risks, provoke and challenge audiences and make narrative films with impact.

Applications for this year's funding open next Wednesday, July 28, and close on Friday, October 28.

They should be sent to Fresh Shorts, NZ Film Commission, PO Box 11-546 Wellington.

Ms Newborn has made several films that include the recently acclaimed 47-minute film, Kit and Maynie. Tea, Scones and Nuclear Disarmament, filmed with co-director Claudia Pond Eyley.

It made its mark at this year's Documentary Edge Festival and has also attracted international interest.

Ms Newborn was recently appointed executive director of Women in Film and Television and says the film commission's announcement follows a recent review.

"This is one of those changes that's been made by the commission's new chief, Graeme Mason, in line with the review's recommendations.

"There are a lot of talented people around and it's a great opportunity for Waiheke filmmakers."

Shirin Brown, who teaches digital design at AUT and has an MA in screen production from Auckland University, says filmmaking is a costly business, so the commission's new scheme is a winner.

She is in the process of completing a short feature film called Plan B, but says relying on free help to supplement her own self-funding of $6900 has made it a long haul.

She says she was so pleased by the commission's announcement she has already sent an email saying thanks.

"All the grants have dried up except for people already established."

Ms Brown says the highest costs involve feeding people who are working for nothing and post-production expenses, that she claims are bigger than most people imagine.

And taking a film to festival costs around a further $2500.

"With everyone working for nothing, you can bring in a narrative film for around $10,000. The new scheme will create good opportunities. If I had had a $10,000 grant, it would not have been such a struggle."

Meanwhile, she advises other aspiring island filmmakers to make sure they have a well-written script if they decide to apply.

The commission will be holding a Fresh Shorts roadshow to discuss the criteria and answer questions from July 24 to 27 July in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin.

See website www.nzfilm. co.nz for more details and criteria on applications or email Fresh Shorts assistant Lauren Granshaw on fresh shorts@nzfilm.co.nz.

- Waiheke Marketplace